Explore, Learn & Kayak on Maryland’s Eastern Shore

The Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center (CBEC) is a 510-acre preserve located in Queen Anne’s County, MD

Visit Us

600 Discovery Lane
Grasonville, MD 21638

Open Daily

Hours: 9am to 5pm
Weather permitting

Become a Member

Explore our Individual, Family & Business Memberships

Explore Outdoor Activities at CBEC!

Trail Maps

Over 510 acres available

Kayak Rentals

Kayak season runs May to November

Annual Events

CBEC hosts a a wide variety of programs each year.

Birds & Wildlife

The Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center (CBEC) is a 510-acre preserve

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Miles of shoreline
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Visitors to CBEC
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Volunteers
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School children participate in CBEC education programs
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259 species of birds
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445 acres of marsh restored
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55 acres of forest restored
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1.2 acres of pollinator meadow restored
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10 acres of sportfish habitat restored
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13 million oysters restored
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Species of flora and fauna

Become a Member

  • Free kayak & paddleboard rental
  • Free use of outdoor equipment
  • Discounts on programs and at the gift shop
  • Subscription to the CBEC e-newsletter
  • Unlimited exploration!

Upcoming Events

Saturday Morning Bird Hikes

Monthly throughout 2026

One-hour monthly guided bird hikes around CBEC for beginner and experienced birders. Each hike is themed, but with an eye out for what comes our way.

Critters & Cocktails

January –  April 2026

Series of entertaining and educational talks on wildlife of the Chesapeake Bay.

St. Patrick’s Day Bingo

March 14, 2026

Feel a wee bit o’ luck?
Join us for bingo with fun and prizes!

Little Sprouts

March –  November 2026

CBEC’s Little Sprouts program invites young explorers to discover nature through hands-on gardening and learning.

Adult Learning Programs

March –  November 2026

Opportunities for adults to learn about the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem, hands on and in depth.

Fishing Derby

April 11, 2026

CBEC’s annual fishing derby returns for kids to enjoy catching a big one!

Boat Tours

April – September 2026

This new series of monthly boat tours includes bird observation and beverage tastings.

Pollinators 2026

April – October 2026

Delve into whatever piques your interest about pollinators and their habitats.

Summer Camps

June –  August 2026

Outdoor adventures that spark curiosity and inspire young naturalists.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is CBEC?

The Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center is a nonprofit 510-acre 501(c)3 nature center. We are deeply committed to environmental sustainability through providing people with authentic outdoor recreational and educational experiences that contribute to the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

What is CBEC Not?

CBEC is not part of any other Chesapeake Bay organization. It is a unique entity incorporated as Wildfowl Trust of North America Inc., EIN 52-1188939. CBEC is not an advocacy or lobbying group; it is apolitical.

Where is CBEC Located?

600 Discovery Lane, Grasonville, Maryland, just off US 301/US 50.

CBEC is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily except some holidays. The Visitor Center is open mid-April through mid-November, but the property is open year-round.

What is the best time of year to visit CBEC?

  • There is abundant wildlife year-round at CBEC. Birding is excellent throughout the year, from spring migrants to waterfowl on our lakes, ponds and bay waters. Winter migrants start appearing in November and head north in late February-March.

What can I do at CBEC?

  • Hike and walk 6 miles of walking trails; bring a picnic and enjoy our small beach; visit our captive birds of prey; photograph birds, wildlife and native plants and trees; kayak and paddle board in Marshy Creek and the Chesapeake Bay; and participate in education programs for preschoolers, school-age children and adults.

What is not permitted in CBEC?

  • No disturbance of animal or plant life. Molesting, injuring, disturbing or destroying any animal or plant is prohibited. Do not disturb artifacts and historic items. Do not take any bones, plants, rocks or other objects from the property. No fishing in CBEC’s ponds and lakes. No alcohol or drugs are permitted.

Can I bring my dogs to CBEC?

  • Visitors are permitted to bring their dogs on leash. We ask that you purchase a Dog Membership, providing information about your dog’s immunizations, etc.

What animals and flora are at CBEC?

  • CBEC is a birding hotspot.  Eagles, ospreys, owls, herons, egrets, swans and ducks are abundant at varying times of the year. You may spot foxes, racoons, groundhogs, deer, otter and muskrats. Turtles and terrapins can be found along our waters and shorelines. CBEC’s property contains forests, meadows and marshlands, populated with species native to the Eastern Shore.

Is fishing permitted?

  • Fishing is not allowed in any of CBEC’s ponds or lakes, but it is permitted in Chesapeake Bay waters with proper licenses.

Is hunting permitted?

  • Hunting by the public on CBEC property is not allowed. The deer population is actively managed by CBEC and its agents.

Can I have my wedding, baby shower, birthday party or other event at CBEC? 

  • Yes, CBEC rents its facilities to CBEC members.  For more information, visit the Facility Rental page.